Experimental Investigation on Strength and Durability Aspects of Earthen Blocks Reinforced with Jute Fibres

Abstract

Earthen blocks refer to blocks made out of earth (calculated percentage of clay, silt, sand and gravel). The earth is compressed at high pressure with the help of either manual or automatic/semi-automatic press. Since the blocks are unfired, it is stabilised with either lime or cement. Studies on performance of the unfired earthen block in comparison with the conventional blocks is gaining momentum. This study aims at investigating the strength and durability properties of the earthen blocks reinforced with jute fibres. The jute fibres were mixed at a ratio of 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75% and 1 % with the earth (Gravel + sand = 45%, Clay + Silt = 45%). The mix was stabilized with 10% of lime. Test was conducted on strength parameters (compression & tensile) and durability parameters (water absorption, erosion & wearing, shrinkage & drying time). It was found that with the inclusion of jute fibers, the tensile strength and compressive strength of the block showed an increase of 30-40 %. The optimum percentage of fibre was found to be 0.5% as higher percentage of fibre increases the water content and voids in the blocks. The erosion and the wearing resistance of the block increased with inclusion of jute fibres. Since jute is a natural fibre, its natural decomposition is a challenge that needs to be addressed in the future studies. Studies on fibre treatment and its orientation can be future work.